China's energy storage sector just took a major safety leap. On August 1st, 2025, the GB 44240-2024 standard (Secondary lithium cells and batteries used in electrical energy storage systems-Safety requirements) officially took effect. This isn't just another guideline; it's China's first mandatory national safety standard specifically targeting lithium-ion batteries used in energy storage systems (ESS). This move shifts safety from optional to essential.
1. Where Does This Standard GB 44240-2024 Apply?
The standard covers lithium batteries and packs in diverse ESS applications:
- ① Telecom backup power
- ② Central emergency lighting & alarms
- ③ Fixed engine starting
- ④ Residential & commercial solar systems
- ⑤ Grid-scale energy storage (both on-grid & off-grid)
▲ Crucially: Systems rated over 100 kWh fall directly under GB 44240-2024. Smaller systems follow the separate GB 40165 standard.
2. Why "Mandatory" Matters
This is a game-changer. GB 44240-2024 carries legal force and market access requirements. Compliance is non-negotiable. It also aligns with major international standards (IEC, UL, UN), ensuring compatibility globally. Most importantly, it imposes comprehensive safety demands across the entire battery life cycle, including design, manufacturing, testing, transportation, installation, operation, and recycling. The era of "cheap and unsafe" is coming to an end.
3. Rigorous Lithium Battery Safety Testing Standards
The standard mandates 23 specific safety tests, covering cells, modules, and full systems. Key tests include:
- ⭐ Overcharge: Charging to 1.5x the limit voltage for 1 hour (no fire/explosion).
- ⭐ Forced Discharge: Reverse charging to a set voltage (no thermal runaway).
- ⭐ Nail Penetration: Simulating internal shorts with ultra-slow needle insertion (no thermal runaway).
- ⭐ Thermal Abuse: Exposure to 130°C for 1 hour.
- ⭐ Mechanical & Environmental: Drop, crush, impact, vibration, and temperature cycling tests.
A dedicated appendix details thermal runaway testing, specifying triggers, measurement points, failure criteria (such as rapid temperature spikes or voltage drops), and details.
4. Stronger Battery Management Systems (BMS)
BMS requirements are now mandatory. Systems must include:
- ♦ Over-voltage/over-current charge control
- ♦ Under-voltage discharge cut-off
- ♦ Over-temperature control
- ♦ Automatic system lock-down in fault conditions (non-resettable by users)
The standard pushes for a holistic approach to safety, encouraging designs that prevent thermal runaway propagation.
5. Clearer & Tougher lithium battery labeling requirements
Product identification gets stricter. Batteries and packs must have permanent Chinese labels showing:
- ① Name, model, capacity, energy rating, voltage, charge limits
- ② Manufacturer, date, polarity, safe lifespan, unique code
- ③ Labels must withstand heat and remain readable long-term. Packs also need clear warnings: "No Disassembly," "Avoid High Temperatures," "Stop Use if Swelling."
6. Conclusion
GB 44240-2024 marks China's decisive step towards mandatory, high-level safety for its booming energy storage industry. It sets a high bar, driving quality and safety upgrades across the board. For manufacturers relying on "low-cost, low-safety" tactics, the game is over. This is the new baseline for trustworthy ESS in China.
Post time: Aug-07-2025